Description
Chicken Zucchini Casserole blends tender chicken, fresh zucchini, and creamy plant-based cheese (plant-based) into a comforting and easy-to-make baked dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it offers a fresh, wholesome flavor with customizable options to suit your taste preferences.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium zucchini, sliced into thin rounds
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup plant-based cheese (plant-based), shredded or sliced
- 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the zucchini into thin rounds, dice the onion, mince the garlic cloves, and cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and optimal texture.
- Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook until translucent and fragrant. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until lightly browned and nearly cooked through.
- Combine with Zucchini and Sauce: Transfer the chicken and aromatics to a mixing bowl. Add zucchini slices, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar (natural), freshly chopped parsley and thyme, and the natural gelling agent. Mix well to evenly coat the chicken and vegetables.
- Assemble and Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the mixture evenly in a casserole dish. Generously sprinkle plant-based cheese (plant-based) on top. Bake uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until zucchini is tender and the cheese topping is melted and lightly golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to set and the casserole to hold together.
Notes
- Slice zucchini uniformly to ensure even cooking and avoid mushiness.
- If zucchini releases excess moisture, lightly salt and pat dry before using to prevent sogginess.
- Sear chicken first to lock in juices and add flavor.
- Add fresh herbs near the end of mixing to preserve their bright flavor.
- For extra cheesiness, layer some plant-based cheese (plant-based) within the casserole as well as on top.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: chicken casserole, zucchini casserole, plant-based cheese, gluten free casserole, easy weeknight dinner
